PANDEF Chairman Igali Mourns Bamanga Tukur, Hails Legacy of National Unity

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

ABUJA — The National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, has mourned the death of former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman and elder statesman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, CON, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most patriotic and accomplished citizens.

Igali, who paid his last respects at Tukur’s Abuja residence on September 12, 2026, said the former Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) chief and PDP chairman died at the age of 90, just three days before his 91st birthday, which would have been celebrated on September 15.

The PANDEF chairman described Tukur as an accomplished public servant, diplomat, businessman and politician whose commitment to national unity transcended ethnic, religious and regional considerations.

According to Igali, Tukur’s tenure at the NPA was particularly significant for the Niger Delta, as he ensured that ports across the region, including Port Harcourt, Calabar, Warri and Onne, received attention and operated on an equal footing with the major ports in Lagos.

Igali also recalled Tukur’s contributions to national integration during his tenure as PDP National Chairman, as well as his role in advancing African economic cooperation, including efforts connected to the establishment of Afreximbank, the African Business Roundtable and other continental trade and investment initiatives.

Beyond his professional achievements, Igali remembered Tukur as a humble mentor and father figure who positively influenced people across Nigeria and Africa.

He said Tukur’s death has created a significant void, but expressed gratitude to God for granting the late statesman a long life dedicated to public service.

“May Baba’s soul rest in peace,” Igali prayed.